Introverts in the workplace

If your open-concept office is driving you crazy, it could be because you're an introvert.

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Stereo-typically, introverts are portrayed as not having a social life because they don't communicate, party, or make friends easily. They are considered to be geeks with their noses in books or their eyes glued to a video game. They appear sullen, standoffish, or stuck up.

What society doesn't see is that introverts are perceptive, thoughtful listeners who focus on the details and find unseen connections. Their quiet personas are not completely silent; they can make a powerful influence on those around them.

Books such as Quiet Influence, Quiet, and The Introvert's Way--which can all be found at the Towson Library--provide a larger perspective on how introverts work, live, and play. They face roadblocks because they are pressured to act extroverted by making quick decisions and being around people. In actuality, introverts function best when they have structured quiet time to allow themselves the chance to recharge their energy. Introverts don't mind being around people but prefer being along because they are highly sensitive towards emotions. They are receptive to ideas and are more likely to sit in the back where they can observe the action.

Introverts in the workplace thrive in closed work spaces versus open ones. They prefer less meetings, which are socially taxing, and would much rather meet 1-1. Introverts enjoy careers that allow them to work solo, be an engaged listener, have focused conversations, perform their communication primarily in writing, and practice effective social media. Standing out in the workplace is often difficult for them, but whether or not introverts promote their quiet talents often depend on where place themselves in the workplace. If introverts are more comfortable, they will be more likely to network with those close to them, and let more extroverted people do the talk that allows the introvert to gain more recognition and attention.

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Emily Raffensberger, master wordsmith and grammar vigilante, is a graduate student at Towson University who works two part-time jobs. In the next five months, she will graduate with a Master's in Professional Writing. She hopes to have a full-time job with healthcare benefits in six. Her documented job search will no doubt lead others in the Baltimore area to great success.

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